Transformation from assertive play to enduring perseverance: Washington Sundar's Test re-emergence
Washington Sundar Shines in Test Cricket Evolution
In the world of Test cricket, India's Washington Sundar has been making waves with his impressive performances. After a three-year wait, the 25-year-old all-rounder made a remarkable comeback against New Zealand in 2024, marking the start of his rise as a promising red-ball force.
Sundar's debut Test series against New Zealand in 2024 was his first since 2021. Prior to this, he had hinted at his red-ball potential, scoring a composed 62 in his debut innings against Australia in 2021. His control with the ball, maturity with the bat, and quiet resilience under pressure suggest that he is built for the demands of modern Test cricket.
In the ongoing series against England, Sundar has been in stellar form. He has scored 205 runs at an average of 51.25 and taken seven wickets in five innings. His gritty hundred against England, played at No. 5 due to an injury to Rishabh Pant, was a part of a 203-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja.
This century helped India save the fourth Test and keep the series alive. The hundred, played at Old Trafford in Manchester, was a significant milestone for Sundar, as it was his maiden Test century. His batting performance was marked by attractive shot-making and adaptability, with memorable strokes like an inside-out six off Joe Root and effective pulling shots in tough English conditions.
Before his red-ball success, Sundar was considered a white-ball specialist. However, his growth as a red-ball cricketer is evident in his impressive statistics. In 12 Tests, Sundar has amassed 673 runs at an average of 44.86, with a century and four fifties. With the ball, he has 32 wickets at 27.87, including a five-wicket haul and a 10-for in a match.
Sundar made his Test debut in 2017 and has played 12 Tests as of mid-2025. He has developed from a primarily bowling-focused player into a genuine all-rounder. His bowling includes off-spin deliveries that have troubled top international batsmen, with highlights such as a notable four-wicket haul at Lord's.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has long believed in Sundar's capabilities, calling him a genuine all-rounder who could play Test cricket for many years. Sundar's performances in the England series have put him prominently in highlight reels, signaling his readiness to tackle diverse and challenging conditions abroad, a vital trait for long-term Test success.
As India head into the final Test of the series at The Oval with the scoreline reading 1-2, all eyes will once again be on Sundar to deliver with both bat and ball. With his skill, temperament, and growing reputation as a key player in India's Test setup, Sundar is poised to make a significant impact in the series finale.
In summary, Washington Sundar has evolved significantly in red-ball cricket, becoming a dependable all-rounder balancing thoughtful batting with productive off-spin bowling. His maiden century and key bowling contributions in the high-profile 2025 England series underline his ascending trajectory and potential to become a mainstay in India's Test squad.
- As his career grows, Washington Sundar's versatility in Test cricket has shown potential in both business and sports analysis, with experts predicting he may further excel in diverse and challenging conditions such as new sports markets or developing investment landscapes.
- Beyond cricket, Sundar's impressive maturity and resilience suggest life lessons that can resonate in various aspects of life, including career and personal pursuits, inspiring others to tackle challenges with the same stoicism and adaptability in sports and business.
- With his promising red-ball performances and growing fame, Washington Sundar's story will be featured prominently in news headlines, documentaries, and sports analysis, highlighting his journey as an all-rounder and showcasing his diverse skills that transcend the sports world.
